Overview:
As the new year begins, many Americans are worried about the rising cost of healthcare, with nearly half of US adults concerned about affording necessary healthcare in 2026. Parkland Health's Patient Financial Services team offers programs that may lower the costs of care received at Parkland, including Medicaid, Medicare, Health Insurance Marketplace, Parkland Financial Assistance, Crime Victims Compensation Program, Parkland Self Pay Charity Discount Program, and Parkland Community Health Plan. The team can help individuals understand and qualify for these programs.
The new year is here, and for many people it brings a blend of hope and worry. Across the
country, millions of Americans are feeling the pressure from the rising cost of healthcare.
Many people do not have health insurance and are seeing higher prescription drug costs.
A recent West Health and Gallup survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults (47%) are worried they won’t be able to afford necessary healthcare in 2026. With higher premiums, larger deductibles, and everyday expenses stacking up, it is no surprise that many people are stressed about how they will afford the care they need.
Parkland Health’s Patient Financial Services team is here to help you understand programs that
may lower the costs of care received at Parkland. Our counselors can walk you through programs
that may reduce your costs for care provided at Parkland and help you identify health coverage
you may qualify for.
You may qualify for programs such as:
- Medicaid: For people with low income, limited resources, disabilities, or certain life
situations like pregnancy. It covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, long-term
care, and more. Benefits vary by state. - Medicare: Health insurance for adults 65 and older.
- Health Insurance Marketplace ® (ACA): If you don’t have health insurance through
your job, the Marketplace lets you compare insurance plans, check for low monthly
premiums, and explore options that reduce out-of-pocket costs. - Parkland Financial Assistance (PFA): For eligible Dallas County residents who meet
income requirements and need help paying for services at Parkland. - Crime Victims Compensation Program: Helps victims and their families cover medical
bills, counseling, lost wages, and other recovery costs. - Parkland Self Pay Charity Discount Program: Offers discounts for medically
necessary care performed at Parkland. - Parkland Community Health Plan: Health coverage for people who qualify for
Medicaid or CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), with access to many doctors,
specialists, and hospitals at little or no cost.
You do not have to manage these challenges alone when it comes to care at Parkland. Visit
parklandhealth.org/insurance to see accepted plans, or parklandhealth.org/paying-for-your-
services for guidance.
